ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252 Barebone System

The ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252 Barebone System is a compact, enterprise-grade 1U server platform designed for dense data center deployments, edge computing, and professional infrastructure workloads. This barebone chassis provides a robust foundation for a customizable server solution—ready to pair with a compatible LGA-1200 processor, memory, and storage to deliver reliable performance in a space-saving form factor. Built around the Intel C252 chipset and a versatile 1U chassis, the ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252 emphasizes reliability, expandability, and easy maintenance, making it a strong choice for virtualization, storage, network services, and critical workloads that demand consistent uptime.

• Space-saving 1U rack-mountable design: A compact chassis optimized for dense server rooms and data centers, enabling efficient rack space utilization without compromising on performance or expandability.
• Single processor readiness: Supports 1 x LGA-1200 processor, offering flexible compute options for a range of workloads—from virtualization to high-throughput applications—while keeping power and cooling requirements in check.
• Expandable memory for memory-intensive tasks: Up to 32 GB of DDR4 SDRAM (DDR4-3200/PC4-25600) across 4 DIMM slots, providing enough headroom for demanding applications, databases, and virtualization hosts.
• Flexible storage with multiple 3.5" bays: Four 3.5" drive bays enable scalable storage configurations, ideal for direct-attached storage, backup, and media serving roles in a barebone server environment.
• Integrated management and graphics support: ASPEED AST2500 controller with 32 MB graphics and standard RJ-45 networking streamline remote management and remote console access in data center operations.

Technical Details of ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252

• Form factor: 1U Rack-mountable chassis for space-efficient deployment.
• CPU support: 1 x Processor compatible with Socket LGA-1200 (processor not included in barebone package).
• Chipset: Intel C252 chipset, designed for reliable server-class performance.
• Memory: 32 GB DDR4 SDRAM maximum capacity, DDR4-3200/PC4-25600 support.
• Memory slots: 4 total memory slots to accommodate flexible RAM configurations.
• Drive bays: 4 x 3.5" bays for scalable storage options and straightforward drive provisioning.
• Storage controller: Serial ATA/600 (SATA 6Gb/s) controller for high-speed storage connectivity.
• Graphics and management: ASPEED AST2500 with 32 MB graphics for out-of-band management and remote IPMI functionality.
• Networking: RJ-45 network port for reliable wired connectivity and easy integration into existing networks.

How to install ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252

• Plan and prepare: Verify compatibility with your intended LGA-1200 CPU, memory modules, and drives. Ensure your rack space has adequate cooling and power supply capacity for the planned configuration. Confirm the front-panel and rear I/O access for maintenance and management tasks.
• Install the processor: In a clean workstation or service area, install a compatible LGA-1200 processor into the motherboard tray, following the CPU socket alignment and torque recommendations. Attach the CPU cooler if not pre-installed in the barebone, ensuring proper mounting and thermal contact.
• Populate memory: Install DDR4 DIMMs in the 4 slots, following the recommended population order from the motherboard manual to maximize memory performance and ensure stability. Verify that the total memory does not exceed 32 GB and that modules are fully seated in their slots.
• Configure storage: Install hard drives into the four 3.5" bays as needed. Connect SATA cables to the SATA controller and to each drive, routing cables to minimize airflow obstruction. If using RAID configurations, configure appropriate controllers and BIOS/UEFI settings during initial setup.
• Rack mounting and cabling: Secure the barebone chassis into a standard 19" rack. Connect power, network cables, and any management interfaces. Route cables for airflow and strain relief, and ensure that all fans and air intake paths are clear.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the maximum RAM supported by the ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252?

A: The system supports up to 32 GB of DDR4 SDRAM, with DDR4-3200 (PC4-25600) as the specified memory speed, across 4 DIMM slots.

Q: How many drive bays does this barebone system provide?

A: The chassis offers four 3.5" drive bays, allowing flexible storage configurations suited for virtualization hosts, databases, or storage appliances.

Q: Does the barebone include a CPU and memory?

A: No—this is a barebone system designed to be paired with your chosen LGA-1200 processor, memory, and storage components to fit your specific workload and budget.

Q: Which chipset does the ASRock Rack 1U4LW-C252 use?

A: It is built around the Intel C252 chipset, a server-class platform optimized for reliability and scalable enterprise workloads.

Q: What networking and graphics capabilities are integrated?

A: The system includes a standard RJ-45 network port for wired connectivity and an ASPEED AST2500 controller with 32 MB graphics to support remote management and console features, improving ease of administration in data center environments.